Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters

Should you install AFCIs?

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) urges consumers to install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to protect circuits throughout the home. Just as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are installed to prevent electrical shock, arc fault circuit interrupters are electrical safety devices designed to prevent fires caused by dangerous electrical arcs. Arc faults are one of the major causes of the 73,500 residential electrical fires that occur each year. Use of new AFCI technology could prevent between 50 to 75 percent of these fires, saving hundreds of lives, reducing thousands of injuries and nearly $1 billion in property damage annually.

AFCIs recognize the unique signature of harmful arcs—and shut off the circuit to prevent a fire hazard. Arcs can occur along the circuit in residential electrical systems and at outlets and switches behind walls. Hidden electrical fires can spread rapidly, delaying detection by smoke alarms, reducing the chances of survival. Conditions that trigger arc faults include:

Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives is a national network of electric cooperatives across 46 states that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member cooperatives and their employees better engage and serve their members. By working together, Touchstone Energy cooperatives stand as a source of power and information to their 32 million member-owners every day.